It is a quiet day on the early learning front, but there are a few interesting developments, including a new list of great math books for preschoolers.

The list compliments fresh research on how preschoolers can grasp more advanced mathematical ideas than many thought – measuring, basic geometry and relationships. Now, the Erikson Institute is developing a list of books “that are great for early math lessons.”

So far, it includes:

• “Tikki Tikki Tembo” by Arleen Mosel
• “The Doorbell Rang” by Pat Hutchins
• “One is a Snail, Ten is a Crab” by April Sayre
• “Five Creatures” by Emily Jenkins
• “Color Farm” by Lois Ehlert

The list is the brainchild of Mary Hynes-Berry, who works at the Institute’s Early Mathematics Education Project. You can add your favorite early learning math books on the Institute’s Facebook page here.

Texting Helps Literacy? While it wasn’t focused on preschoolers, a new British study found that children who send a lot of text messages may be improving their spelling, the BBC News reports.

So when pupils replace or remove sounds, letters or syllables - such as "l8r" for "later" or "hmwrk" for "homework" - it requires an understanding of what the original word should be.

Instead of texting being a destructive influence on learners, the academics argue that it offers them a chance to "practise reading and spelling on a daily basis". – Phone texting 'helps pupils to spell,' BBC, 1/20/10.

Siblings Matter: Finally, parents may think they play the biggest role in raising their children, but helpful siblings also are major players, Sixty Second Parent reports.

"We know that having a positive relationship with siblings is related to a whole host of better outcomes for teenagers and adults," (Laurie) Kramer (an applied family studies professor in the human and community development department at the University of Illinois) said.